BMA Gears Up for Festive Season with Enhanced Security Measures
Natalie Nyathi
As the festive season approaches, the Border Management Authority (BMA) is rolling out a security plan to manage increased traveler volumes and tackle illegal activities at South Africa’s ports of entry. The plan aims to ensure smooth and secure border operations from December 10, 2025, to January 15, 2026.
The BMA’s plan focuses on a few main goals: managing the expected rise in travelers, preventing illegal activities, and ensuring efficient operations. They anticipate around six million travelers during this period, returning to levels seen before the COVID-19 pandemic. A key focus will be on stopping illegal migration, cross-border crimes, and the smuggling of drugs and stolen goods.
To meet these goals, the BMA is implementing several strategies. Many key ports will extend their hours, with some operating 24 hours a day, including border gates between South Africa and Botswana, and between South Africa and Lesotho. More personnel will be deployed, including support from various government departments. Advanced technologies like drones and body cameras will also be used to enhance security and monitor activities.
The BMA faces challenges, including being under-staffed. Currently, they operate at only about 25% capacity due to funding issues. Many individuals attempt to enter South Africa illegally, mainly from neighboring countries. The issue of smuggling remains a concern, too. To tackle these problems, the BMA will strengthen border security and enhance efforts to detect and seize illegal goods.
Travelers are asked to follow health, immigration, and biosecurity rules to avoid delays. Essential requirements include having valid passports and visas. For those traveling from areas with yellow fever, vaccination certificates will be necessary. Travelers should also be aware that bringing certain regulated goods, like meat and fruits, into the country requires proper permits. The BMA will conduct inspections to catch any prohibited items.
Despite facing these challenges, the BMA has seen progress since its establishment in April 2023. In the second quarter of 2025/26, BMA officers processed over 9 million travelers, a significant increase from the previous year. They have also intercepted illicit goods and apprehended individuals attempting illegal entries.
Looking ahead, the BMA plans to improve its operations through more staffing, technology upgrades, and better collaboration with partners. They are dedicated to ensuring a smooth and secure festive season, allowing only legitimate travelers and goods through South Africa’s borders.
Dr. Michael Masiapato, BMA Commissioner, stated, “We appeal to the public to prepare their documents in advance to avoid delays.” He added, “We want to assure the public, our stakeholders, and our international partners that the BMA is fully prepared and committed to delivering a seamless 2025-2026 festive season operation.” Masiapato also mentioned that “the BMA’s festive season operational plan will be rolled out in four phases: planning, execution, demobilisation, and sustenance.”
